Awarded to an individual or team who have made an outstanding contribution to the community or built strong links with the community through outstanding partnership and collaboration.

1. Dr Alice Neikirk,  School of Law and Justice

   Dr Alice Neikirk has made a significant impact on the Hunter community through her work with refugees. By establishing, cultivating and growing partnerships with community service providers and community members, Alice has created platforms for sharing stories and experiences across various formats and venues, advancing intercultural and cross-community dialogue. She has also led efforts to improve access to justice for refugee community members.

2. Dr Mitch Smith, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy

   Dr Mitch Smith has established a high-impact partnership with Hunter Sports Centre (HSC), solidifying the joint commitment of the University and Lake Macquarie City Council to positively impact the community. This collaboration includes a state-of-the-art athlete testing facility that benefits the community and provides employment for Exercise and Sports Science graduates. It also features classes at HSC, enhancing student experience while alleviating resourcing pressures. A student-led clinic provides low-cost exercise physiology services to the community, and critical student placements.

3. Celebrating 50 Years of Open Foundation

   Catherine Burgess, Dr Jo Hanley, Lauren Crask, Charlotte Verstegen, Jessica Collins, Tegan Brown, Lilly Haines, Olga Zelinsky, Gillean Shaw, Jocelyn Redman, Dr Ann Hardy

   In 2024, Open Foundation celebrated 50 years of changing lives. As Australia’s oldest enabling program, it has helped 70,000 students from diverse backgrounds access higher education. To celebrate this milestone, the project team delivered a community engagement program to showcase the transformational power of Open Foundation. Through events, media and exhibitions, the activities reached 1.4 million people, built community pride in Open Foundation, and elevated the University’s reputation as a leader in equity and excellence.

4. The Greater Bank Finance Academy Financial Literacy Program

   Dr Adrian Melia, Kathy Rimmer

   NSW high schools are now offering money management lessons through the Newcastle Business School and Greater Bank, as part of the Greater Bank Finance Academy. This initiative comes in response to concerns that nearly half of all young Australians are at risk of falling into a debt spiral by the age of 25.

Awarded to an individual or team who have worked with industry in a way that goes beyond standard commercial relationships and have contributed to positive outcomes for both parties.

1. Dr Ray Nickson, School of Law and Justice

   Dr Ray Nickson has cultivated strong, mutually beneficial ties with legal and justice sector stakeholders. Across several related industry partnerships, Ray has worked tirelessly to enhance access to justice for vulnerable groups throughout Australia. These collaborations have led to impactful research outputs and enhanced learning outcomes for students.

2. Associate Professor Amy Maguire, School of Law and Justice

   Through her extensive and diverse engagements with government, policy stakeholders, civil society and the legal profession, Associate Professor Amy Maguire delivers benefits across the Australian human rights framework and in international affairs. Amy’s exceptional industry engagement resulted in the award of a $1.14 million ARC Industry Fellowship – the first ever industry fellowship funded for the Law discipline. This fellowship enables her to collaborate with the Australian Human Rights Commission on a major law reform and human rights education project.

3. Global Centre for Research and Training in Radiation Oncology

   Associate Professor Yolanda Surjan, Debra Lee, Leah Cramp, Laura Feighan

   The Global Centre for Research and Training in Radiation Oncology emulates a functioning radiation oncology facility and exists as a hub for education and research. It extends its functions to the local and global community and exists in partnership with industry. The Centre's founding team advocates for radiation oncology and its patients by responding to problems through education and purpose-led research. The Centre is currently in partnership with seven international and 12 national partners.

4. Virtual Oral Musculature Assessment

   Dr Rachael Unicomb, Joanne Walters

   Led by Dr. Rachael Unicomb and Joanne Walters, in collaboration with Start Beyond, are recognised for their innovative Virtual Oral Musculature Assessment (VOMA) project. This VR-based training tool has revolutionized speech pathology education by providing consistent, immersive training experiences. The project significantly improved student competence and confidence, positioning the University as a leader in clinical education innovation and setting a new standard for training methodologies.

Awarded to an individual or team who have advanced the University’s international engagement capability and profile.

1. Maria Cano Dominguez, School of Architecture and Built Environment

   Maria’s outstanding efforts to internationalise her courses have led to new global partnerships and growth in international student enrolment. Over the past two years, she has focused on building strong connections with international institutions, developing an exchange program and summer elective in Spain. These initiatives position the University at the forefront of impactful global educational projects. Maria’s dedication has been instrumental in elevating the University’s presence in the international academic landscape.

2. Dr  Jessica  Siva, School of Architecture and Built Environment

   Dr Jessica Siva has been pivotal in advancing international engagement through the Australia-India Zero-Carbon Construction Network project, involving more than 1,000 participants and over 200 partnerships globally. This led to an international student mobility program that included a design competition and exhibition, enriching students’ global experiences. Her leadership continues to foster global partnerships, new grants, awards, and her lead editorship of a forthcoming book on sustainable practices between Australia and India, strengthening the University’s global engagement profile.

3. Dr  Kevin Sobel-Read, School of Law and Justice

   Dr Kevin Sobel-Read has developed a unique initiative in collaboration with Cook Islands government leaders, creating innovative learning opportunities for students and strengthening relationships between the Cook Islands and our University. Through this initiative, Kevin’s students have gained knowledge and skills while saving lives, contributing to economic development and increasing human rights protections. Kevin continues to elevate the University’s profile and create new sustainable opportunities by expanding these partnerships to Samoa and beyond.

Recognises and celebrates innovative initiatives and solutions development by an individual to promote, enhance or protect the health, safety and wellness of our staff and students.

1. Peter Digby, Infrastructure and Facilities Services

   Peter Digby developed and implemented a VOIP mass notification system to enhance emergency response across the University's campuses. This systems enables standardised messaging for emergency scenarios such as evacuation, lockdown and shelter in place. It enables the Security Control Room to communicate with all buildings collectively or address each building individually, significantly strengthening campus safety and emergency coordination.

2. Natalie Evans, Infrastructure and Facilities Services

   Natalie’s drive and determination has significantly strengthened the University’s emergency response capability. She established the Emergency Management Committee, refreshed the emergency management framework and developed a comprehensive warden network. Notably, she implemented the Warden Eligibility and Remuneration Policy, which recognises Building Wardens’ and Emergency Wardens’ crucial roles in supporting emergency preparedness and response. The policy outlines eligibility criteria and performance metrics for warden remuneration, reinforcing the University’s commitment to health and safety, and enhancing capacity to manage emergencies.

3. Associate Professor Doug Smith, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy

   Associate Professor Doug Smith has gone above and beyond as Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) Chair, ensuring compliance with Office of the Gene Technology Regulator (OGTR) obligations, amid resource shortages. Doug has strengthened relationships with the OGTR, mentored new team members, and supported Health Safety and Wellbeing staff in OGTR protocols. Doug’s meticulous reviews of safety protocols, dedication to compliance, and biosafety guidance have been invaluable. His leadership has streamlined IBC meetings, enhanced team skills, and upheld the University's commitment to safety and compliance.

Recognises and celebrates innovative initiatives and solutions development by a team to promote, enhance or protect the health, safety and wellness of our staff and students.

1. Performance Edge Virtual Reality Stress Management Program Team

   Professor Rohan Walker, Dr Emma Kerr, Phoebe Sanders, Dr Murielle Kluge, Johanna Voeste, Helen Scobie, Scott Laing, Andrew Steele

   The Performance Edge Virtual Reality Stress Management Program, developed by the University's Centre for Advanced Training Systems, offers digital mental health training for individuals and groups. Led by qualified clinicians, participants practice evidence-based stress management techniques in a digital 'real world' environment. This innovative program helps staff and students develop essential skills for managing stress in their work or study settings, enhancing wellbeing and psychological safety while mitigating psychosocial risks.

2. Supporting Well-being for Criminology Students: A Collaboration Between Criminology Academics and the University Counselling Team

   Dr Alice Neikirk, Dr Emma Kerr, Dr Ray Nickson, Associate Professor Xanthe Mallett, Alex Larsen, Andrew Steele

   The team, consisting of experts from Criminology and Counselling, designed and implemented a whole-of-program approach to promote student health and wellbeing of criminology students. This initiative was in response to students' experiences of vicarious trauma during career-ready placements. This collaborative approach promises to support student wellbeing beyond the classroom and throughout their careers.

3. University Health Service Team Health – FIT Test Program

   Jodie Griffin, Alison Cole, Leah Coghlan , Lesley Bramston, Robin Brown, Keshni Lal, Michelle Lindus, Lisa Budden, James Brew, Aron Edwards, Vanessa Blackwell, Roanne Morris, Kerry Butler

   University Health Service Team is nominated for exceptional work implementing a comprehensive mask fit testing program and a student placement vaccination program providing a one-stop-shop for students. By ensuring compliance with health regulations and offering proactive support for students in health placements, the team has created a safer learning and working environment. Their dedication to continuous improvement, accessible, affordable services, and flexible support has fostered a culture of health and safety across the University community.

Awarded to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional performance, service or achievements.

1. Carol McGrath, Governance and Assurance Services

   Carol McGrath delivers exceptional service to numerous University teams, as endorsed by a dozen colleagues who collaborated on her nomination. She has been instrumental to many major initiatives, ranging from HR processes to academic performance. Carol’s ability to understand the diverse stakeholder needs and provide clear, actionable guidance is invaluable. Her professionalism, responsiveness, and commitment have earned her widespread respect, making her an indispensable asset to support governance, compliance, and operational efficiency across the University.

2. Kate Miller, Legal Council

   Kate Miller exercised exceptional initiative and leadership skills in developing and delivering the project to implement the University’s public interest disclosure obligations. Her work was a 12 months project that exceeded the call of her duties, and included drafting policy documents, implementing University wide training for staff, managers and Council, co-ordinating compliance by the University’s controlled entities, and supporting the General Counsel in managing the investigation process for dislosures.

3. Meghann Smith, Office of Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic)

   With an 82% rise in Generative AI-related misconduct in 2024, causing a significant disruption to academic integrity, Meghann Smith has taken the lead on providing advice and support on managing these academic integrity issues for the 30 SACOs. Her work has been vital in maintaining the integrity of our conduct processes while adapting to these new challenges. Through her outstanding to service to stakeholders, Meg is helping to build a culture that emphasises fairness and integrity.

Awarded to a team which may consist of either a work unit team or individuals from different work units whose collaboration has produced an outstanding contribution.

1. Code of Conduct Implementation Working Group

   Naomi Fischer, Rachael Laybutt, Angus Rogers, Lynn Herd, Emma Hale, Andrew Cairns, Gregory Ward, Fiona Mundie, Ennia Jones, Serena Rogers, Angela Mills

   The Code of Conduct Implementation Working Group collaborated across multiple teams to develop and implement a ground-breaking and impactful Staff Code of Conduct program. Through extensive stakeholder engagement, the group created policies, streamlined workflows, and enhanced declaration processes. Key initiatives included updating training, integrating the Code into onboarding and performance management, and launching a University-wide communication and support platform. With strategic phases and expert networks, the group ensured long-term integrity uplift, exemplifying cross-unit collaboration and exceptional achievement.

2. Global Academic Reputation Team

   Tina Imig, Nicole Bagnall, Stephanie Venz, Steve Wheatley, Jessica Ward, Trudy Edwards, Carina Bates, Jessica DeBurr, Dr Yik Teo, Serena Rogers

   The University of Newcastle is an exceptional institution, yet its global reputation has not kept up with the quality of its research. This presented an opportunity to elevate the University’s reputation nationally and globally. Several teams collaborated extensively throughout 2024 to deliver five significant initiatives to raise the University’s profile and showcase the University’s commitment to equity and Indigenous knowledges. These efforts, which culminated in hosting the Times Higher Education conference, reached 661,258 people globally.

3. Performance Edge Virtual Reality Stress Management Program Team

   Professor Rohan Walker, Dr Emma Kerr, Phoebe Sanders, Dr Murielle Kluge, Johanna Voeste, Helen Scobie, Scott Laing, Andrew Steele

   The Performance Edge Virtual Reality Stress Management Program, developed by the University's Centre for Advanced Training Systems, offers digital mental health training for individuals and groups. Led by qualified clinicians, participants practice evidence-based stress management techniques in a digital “real world” environment. This innovative program helps staff and students develop essential skills for managing stress in their work or study settings, enhancing wellbeing and psychological safety while mitigating psychosocial risks.

Awarded to an individual staff member who commenced at the University in the previous 5 years, and who has demonstrated outstanding capacity to contribute meaningfully within the early stages of their career at the University.

1. Amanda Hill, Human Resources Services

   Amanda Hill has made significant contributions to the University’s safety culture. Leading initiatives like the Laboratory Safety Inspection Program and mentoring award-winning student projects, she demonstrates exceptional leadership and innovation. Amanda also chairs the Combined Hunter Organisation Network Group for Safety, extending her impact beyond the University. Her commitment to safety, collaboration, and external engagement continues to drive positive change.

2. Scott Laing, Student Central

   Scott Laing joined the University in late 2022, after forging a career in health, disability and human services. As an alum, and the senior leader charged with Student Wellbeing , Scott takes a collaborative, human-centred approach to student support. He embodies the University value of Engagement, as evidenced by the way that his teams are now engaging beyond their traditional boundaries to create meaningful support initiatives for our growing and diverse cohort of students.

3. Annalese Thomas, Newcastle Institute for Energy and Resources

   Annalese Thomas has been a highly competent contributor at our University for the past three years, working across the NIER and TRaCE teams. As a recent University of Newcastle graduate, she quickly took on a Project Officer role with the TRaCE program, which had only one other staff member at the time. In this complex and high-pressure role, Annalese navigated demanding stakeholder engagement across universities, and complex technical and institutional barriers, setting up the foundation for this important program with calm and competence.

Recognises and celebrates the outstanding contribution individuals or teams have made to enhance the quality of the student experience beyond the formal teaching environment.

1. Career Peers 5-Minute Talk

   Ester Townsend, Amelia Young, Claire Conry, Eliza Shields, Daniel Burwood, Indiana Hardwick, Fiona Carruthers, Junho Lee, Ngoc Tran, Julia Rodriguez-Saco, Katrina Dwyer, Vishwank Jain, Annabel Hoysted

   The Careers Service’s ’5-Minute Talk’ program bridges the gap between students and career-readiness by delivering tailored support to students. Led by student Career Peers, this initiative promotes the success of Career Ready Graduates aligning with our University’s commitment to equipping students for their professional futures. The program is integrated into teaching sessions, offering students Career Peer assistance on topics like job applications, placement experiences, and industry engagement, making sure they have easy access to practical career advice.

2. Digital Day in a Student’s Life Project Team

   Dr Benjamin Shelton, Cordelia Prangley, Phoebe Turner-Purvis

   The Digital Day in a Student’s Life project focused on determining how our University can create Australia’s most inclusive university experience, ensuring equity students are connected, supported and in control of their journey. The project also aimed to explore how the additive nature of university processes and systems may affect these students, considering their complex lived experiences beyond university. The focus was on identifying potential interventions to improve retention and success.

3. Dan Nguyen

   Dan Nguyen has been the University’s shining star for Australia Awards students since 2022. She single-handedly welcomes, mentors, supports, and provides for this incredible cohort of promising, international students, guiding them all the way through from orientation to graduation. Our Australia Awards students have been selected to represent their countries on an amazing government-funded scholarship package and Dan ensures that they have every opportunity to thrive from the experience and from their time in Newcastle.

Recognises and celebrates an individual or team who have made an outstanding contribution to supporting and promoting equity and diversity, and fostering inclusion within the University of Newcastle.

1. Chosen Name ID

   Kate McKenny, Josh Seymour, Nicole Shelford, Kara Upton, Astrid Gearin

   Through collaborative efforts, the EDI, AskUON, and Student Systems and Business Enablement teams have successfully integrated a new Student ID card option within our systems. This allows students to obtain a Student ID card with their chosen name. This positive change is especially beneficial for students affirming their gender identity. By providing this option, we are supporting our students' health and wellbeing outcomes, and fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment where all students feel recognised and respected.

2. Dr Justin Ellis, School of Law and Justice

   Dr Justin Ellis has made an exceptional and sustained contribution to engagement with the wider community to foster inclusion for the university priority group of diverse gender and sexual identity. Justin achieves this engagement on LGBTQ+ inclusion through the translation of his innovative program of research on digiqueer criminology into parliamentary debate, media commentary, and community consultation.

3. Dr Mark Wallis, School of Information and Physical Sciences

   Dr Mark Wallis has been nominated for his outstanding contributions to diversity and inclusion in STEMM through his leadership and coordination of the LGBTIQA+ in STEMM event. Mark organised a successful meet-and-greet that brought together more than 40 students and staff to celebrate the achievements of LGBTIQA+ researchers across various STEMM fields.

Recognises an individual or team who have made an outstanding contribution to demonstrating excellence in accessible practice, supporting the equitable opportunity and meaningful inclusion of students or staff with disability at the University of Newcastle.

1. Empowering Neurodivergent Students for Success

   Katy Lambert, Georgina Kerr, Katrina Hamall, Dianne Kirby

   This tailored onboarding program for neurodivergent students used workshops and information sessions to provide tools and resources for transitioning to university life. It promoted the University's values of inclusion and community support, raised awareness about neurodiversity, encouraged empathy and collaboration, enriching the learning environment. Neurodiverse students played an active role in planning and delivering the event, making sure content was relevant and resonant. Their involvement fostered a sense of ownership and pride, reinforcing the importance of student voice in educational initiatives.

2. Graduation Team

   Jocelyn Redman, Angela Wilson, Helen Harrigan, Daniel De Lore, Renee Selway, Cass Brown, Zahra Hocking, Hugh Gordon, Natalie Perfitt, Tina Holliday-Smith

   Graduations represent the pinnacle moment of our students’ academic journeys. Steeped in tradition, the ceremonies have tended towards abelist practices, unintentionally impacting on students and guests with disabilities. In 2024, the Graduations Team set out to significantly enhance the accessibility of our ceremonies, introducing new technologies and processes to provide an outstanding experience those with a range of mobility, vision and hearing disabilities. The result is more inclusive ceremonies demonstrating our University’s value of equity.

3. Dr David Roy, School of Education

   Dr David Roy, an educator, researcher, and advocate, initiated a NSW Parliamentary Inquiry to improve education for children with disabilities. David's efforts, recognised in national awards, continue to positively impact education systems, as noted in the September 2024 Auditor General NSW report. His voluntary work with children, educators, politicians, and media has been instrumental in driving these changes, despite receiving no additional financial support or reward.

Awarded to an individual or team of teachers who have made an outstanding impact on student learning.

1. Dr Tim Connor, School of Law and Justice

   With innovative assessment practices and a high-expectations/high-support strategy, Dr Tim Connor has transformed his final-year compulsory Company Law course from a subject that few students wanted to take to one of the most productive and highly valued learning experiences in his School. His teaching is praised by colleagues both at our University and other universities and embraced by his students, who regularly draw on the skills and knowledge gained in Company Law to win national essay competitions.

2. Associate Professor Karen Livesey, School of Information and Physical Sciences

   Associate Professor Karen Livesey has developed new physics curricula over the past five years, preparing students for diverse careers. She wrote 16 weeks of content for new courses and developed innovative computer laboratories. Students rate her teaching 5/5 in most courses. She was the only physicist nationally to win a 2023 Australian Award for University Teaching. Her command of the field is shown in the adoption of her materials by university teachers internationally.

3. Dr  Sarah Valkenborghs, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy

   Dr Sarah Valkenborghs is a passionate early career lecturer (five years post-PhD) whose innovation and leadership has enhanced learning, teaching and student experience within the courses she delivers. Sarah’s outstanding contributions draw on the scholarship of teaching and learning as well as consultations with industry professionals to ensure required graduate attributes are embedded in undergraduate learning. Sarah creates authentic assessments and learning environments to ensure the next generation of students emerge as work-ready graduates.

Awarded to an outstanding individual academic or professional staff member actively engaged in research, who is within 5 years of PhD completion. Conjoints may also be considered, providing their research is primarily based at the University.

1. Dr Elissa Elvidge, School of Medicine and Public Health

   Dr Elissa Elvidge is an early career researcher who is recognised in Australia and internationally as a leader in the field of cultural safety research. With only three years post-PhD, Elissa leads multiple Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF) studies ($5 million, $2.5 million CIA) focused on improving clinical and public health outcomes through community research partnerships. Her research continues to have significant, wide-reaching policy impact at a local, state and national levels.

2. Dr Heather Murray, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy

   Since the award of her PhD in 2020, Dr Heather Murray has established herself as a rising star in cancer research and a selfless leader in service to her fellow early career researchers and the University. As a Cancer Institute NSW Early Career Fellow, Heather has made seminal discoveries relating to the biology and treatment of leukaemia, as evidenced by eight leukaemia-related publications (of 17 total), nationally competitive grant funding as lead investigator, and several national awards.

3. Dr Kirrilly Pursey, School of Health Sciences

   Dr Kirrilly Pursey has demonstrated research excellence in disordered eating, and now leads a program to improve nutrition in children with impaired immunity. Kirrilly has published 40 articles with multidisciplinary international and national collaborators, influencing policy and clinical guidelines. Her recognition is reflected through the award of  more than 20 internal and external grants, seven ECR awards, invited publications, and international and national symposia. Kirrilly is an Accredited Practising Dietitian and part-time Lecturer in Nutrition and Dietetics.

Awarded to individuals or teams who have provided outstanding supervision to Higher Degree by Research candidate.

1. Food and Nutrition Team

   Professor Clare Collins, Professor Tracy Burrows, Associate Professor Melinda Hutchesson

   Laureate Professor Clare Collins, Professor Tracy Burrows, and Associate Professor Melinda Hutchesson have shown exceptional leadership in HDR supervision at UON’s School of Health Sciences. Through their collaborative approach, they have significantly advanced nutrition research, secured substantial funding, and engaged the community. With impressive records of student completions and ongoing mentorship, they exemplify excellence in research supervision and mentorship, fostering a supportive environment for the next generation of researchers.

2. Professor Kirsty Pringle, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy

   Professor Kirsty Pringle is a mentor who leads by example, demonstrating a strong work ethic while maintaining and valuing a healthy work/life balance. In addition to outstanding academic mentorship and research training, Kirsty provides all her students with broad and personalised mentorship around career progression, networking, communication, leadership, equity and diversity. As a result, her students emerge from their PhD studies with skills that position them for future success, as evidenced by their many achievements.

3. Professor Shanyong Wang, School of Engineering

   Professor Shanyong Wang has demonstrated an outstanding track record for postgraduate supervision and ECR mentoring. He has successfully supervised 12 RHDs and three Research Associates, supported by his ARC Future Fellowship, Discovery Projects and Linkage Project. Under his supervision, all of them have performed very well, evidenced through excellent publications, successful career development, and several national/international awards, such as the AGS Research Awards, the Senior Moulton Medal and John Carter Award.

Awarded to individuals or teams who have provided outstanding supervision to Higher Degree by Research candidate.

1. Daughters and Dads Active and Empowered Team

   Professor Philip Morgan, Dr Lee Ashton, Dan Lee, Associate Professor Narelle Eather, Dr Myles Young, Kirsten Smith

   ‘Daughters and Dads Active and Empowered’ is an evidence-based program that engages fathers and father-figures with their primary school-aged daughters to enhance physical activity, sport skills, wellbeing, gender equity and the father-daughter bond. Innovative, collaborative partnerships with government, industry, schools, councils and peak sporting bodies have seen the program scaled across Australia and internationally. More than 6,200 participants have benefited, leading to prestigious accolades for research excellence and impact, including commendation by the World Health Organisation.

2. SWAP IT: Enhancing Children's Dietary Intake One Lunchbox at a Time

   Associate Professor Rachel Sutherland, Associate Professor Nicole Nathan, Professor Luke Wolfenden, Professor John Wiggers, Dr Jannah Jones, Dr Anna Rayward, Dr Alison Brown, Dr Courtney Barnes

   Australian children consume over three servings of discretionary foods from their lunchboxes daily, driving poor dietary habits and chronic disease risk. SWAP-IT, an innovative digital school lunchbox program, has been co-designed, piloted, and scaled to 1,200+ schools nationally, improving over a million meals weekly. Multiple research trials demonstrate SWAP-IT enhances children’s nutrition, is cost-effective, and well-received by parents and schools. SWAP-IT is now embedded in health policy and recognised by WHO as an exemplar nutrition program. We would like to acknowledge and thank a range of external collaborators and partners that are integral to implementation and scale up research and research impact. Our collaborators and partners include HNE Local Health District, NSW local Health Districts (Health Promotion Units), Government and Non Government Prevention agencies (Cancer Council Victoria, Health and Wellbeing Qld, Preventive Health SA, Tasmanian Department of Health, WA Department of Health, NSW Ministry of Health and NSW Department of Education), Aboriginal and Multicultural health and Industry Partner Audiri.

3. Teachers and Teaching Research Centre

   Laureate Professor Jennifer Gore, Dr Drew Miller, Steve Hannan, Tom Carey, Wendy Taggart, Dr Leanne Fray, Dr Sally Patfield

   An unparalleled program of research involving 1,400 teachers and 14,500 students from 430 schools in three states has demonstrated the profound impact of the Quality Teaching Rounds professional development program on teaching quality, teacher morale, and student academic achievement. The 2020 launch of the non-profit QT Academy social enterprise provides a sustainable model for delivering impact at scale, engaging more than 7,500 teachers from seven countries and benefiting more than one million school students.

Awarded to a professional staff member who has provided dedicated and valuable support to foster and develop the careers of other staff members through their active and skilled participation in a University mentoring program(s). Has displayed outstanding passion and commitment in mentoring professionals at a level above and beyond normal job requirements and expectations.

1. Roberta Anderson, Office PVC - Health, Medicine and Wellbeing

   Roberta Anderson demonstrates exceptional commitment to mentoring. She builds trust-based relationships, offering tailored guidance that helps her team navigate career challenges, develop leadership skills, and enhance work/life balance. Roberta’s mentorship empowers others, by providing practical strategies for success. Her dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, along with her empathetic and encouraging approach, makes her a transformative mentor.

2. Ester Townsend, Education and Innovation

   Ester Townsend, as the Team Leader of the Careers Service, demonstrates a remarkable dedication to mentoring both staff and students at the University. She is committed to promoting and facilitating growth among everyone she collaborates with. Ester has consistently exemplified exceptional principles of inclusion in her primary role and throughout her mentoring relationships, particularly with neurodivergent and international students.

Awarded to an academic who has provided dedicated and valuable support to foster and develop the careers of other academics through their active and skilled participation in a University mentoring program(s).

1. Professor Tracy Burrows, School of Health Sciences

   Professor Tracy Burrows has mentored academics for over 16 years. Tracy is passionate and dedicated to supporting other academics, within her discipline of Nutrition and Dietetics, but also throughout the University of Newcastle. Her unwavering support, availability and positivity help to support colleagues in the development of skills, as well as career goals across research, teaching and engagement.

2. Professor Anna Giacomini, School of Engineering

   Professor Anna Giacomini exemplifies exceptional mentorship, offering consistently supported early and mid-career researchers at the University. Over 15 years, Anna’s thoughtful guidance has led to successful promotions, grants, and career development for many. Always approachable, she creates a welcoming environment where mentees feel empowered to explore new opportunities. A passionate advocate for women in engineering, she fosters a collaborative and inclusive environment, empowering colleagues with her expertise.

3. Associate Professor Rebecca Lim, School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy

   Associate Professor Rebecca Lim is a champion of mentoring junior academics and students. One of Rebecca’s best qualities as a mentor is her ability to ask questions in a way that supports mentees to come to their own conclusions and critically reflect, empowering them tackle challenges and achieve goals. Rebecca approaches mentoring with kindness, is incredibly generous with her time. Her thoughtful, empowering approach makes a lasting impact on the development and success of those she mentors.

Recognises and celebrates an inspirational leader, or group of leaders who role model our leadership behaviours and contribute to our University’s success.

1. Selina Darney, Pathways and Academic Learning Support

   Selina Darney, as the Widening Participation Pathways Manager, launched the Children’s University (Newcastle) program in 2014 and introduced UNI STEPS in 2022. Selina had the foresight to adapt this international program, creating an access point for equity targeted communities across NSW, under Higher Education Participation funding. In the 2023 Student Feedback survey, 74% of commencing University of Newcastle students who participated in Children’s University, believed the program actively encouraged them to attend the University.

2. Dr Drew Miller, School of Education

   Dr Drew Miller is working with disadvantaged schools, to translate world-leading research into tailored programs that produce remarkable impact on students' academic results and future opportunities. Building on the University’s deep tradition of tackling inequity, his recent national recognition for his partnership with Cessnock High School, along with a $4.3M grant to support 25 highly disadvantaged schools, helps strengthen the University’s reputation as a leader in delivering greater equity.

3. Melissa Moore, Learning and Teaching

   Melissa Moore is an exceptional leader who leads by example with her unique blend of positivity, pragmatism, creative problem solving, gratitude and confidence. Her inspirational leadership style effectively drives performance, through a clear understanding and communication of performance expectations. She demonstrates accountability in line with the University’s vision and strategy, ensuring the successful delivery of the Life Ready Graduates Strategic Plan.

Our University Values are our guiding principles. This award recognises and celebrates an individual or team who have gone above and beyond to exemplify our Values of equity, excellence, engagement and sustainability.

1. Maria Cano Dominguez, School of Architecture and Built Environment

   Maria’s efforts to align her work with the University’s values, particularly in diversity and inclusion, have been outstanding. She is a dedicated staff member who demonstrates excellent teaching, research, and leadership within the School of Architecture and Built Environment. As an immigrant woman in STEMM, she embeds these core values in all her activities, guiding her trajectory and inspiring others.

2. Dr Stacey McMullen, School of Psychological Sciences

   Dr Stacey McMullen is an Indigenous Scholar/Senior Lecturer in the School of Psychological Sciences. Stacey provides an invaluable contribution to the Indigenous content of the undergraduate and postgraduate psychology courses. She strongly advocates for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students’ entry to the University’s Clinical Masters program to ensure capacity building of Indigenous practitioners in the future. Outside of the University, she is also involved in national projects to improve the lives of Indigenous Australia.

3. Security Services Management Team

   Jamie Daniluck, Rebecca Fleming, Mathew James, James Goodliff

   The Security Services Team, led by Jamie Daniluck with key support from Rebecca Flemming, are unsung heroes when is comes to their behaviour, attitude, actions and contribution to our University community. Beyond being the first point of call in responding to on-campus incidents, they engage proactively with our local emergency services, monitor campus life in an unobtrusive but engaging manner with our students and staff, and ensure high quality input into complex matters of safety and security.